Dear Shadow, ​I remember the day we first brought you home from the Animal Shelter- I was eight years old and you were one year old. You were so hyper and you ran all over the house at speeds I didn't know dogs were capable of. I had no idea that you'd soon become my best friend of over 12 years. You slept in my bed most nights, you comforted me every time I was upset, and you celebrated life's greatest moments with me. I don't think I would have survived the insanity of middle school, high school, and most of college without you.

I've known you were growing old, but I still thought I'd be able to come home to your adorable self every break during college. I'm blessed that I was able to do that for three full years, but this Summer has been hard for you... everything has become hard for you. You can't play like you used to, but I know that you wish you could. Going outside to relieve yourself is a struggle, but I hope you know that you look adorable in your doggie diapers! Daily tasks like going up stairs and walking are a challenge because you experience a lot of pain... even though you refuse to show it.

I want you to know that I love you more than ever before. You've taught me so many lessons during your short time here on Earth. You've taught me to not take life so seriously, to live in the moment, and the importance of play. Above all, you've shown me how to love others selflessly. You have filled our household with joy every single day.

I'll never forget the sound of your bark every time you would see the neighbor's chickens. I'll never forget the way you would run towards me and squeal when I'd come home from college. I'll never forget the way you would wake me up in the mornings by jumping onto my bed. But mostly, I'll never forget the way you would look at me adoringly with your big brown eyes. I will miss everything about you.

Anyway; although time is not on our side, I don't regret one moment with you. You were never just a dog and I know that I will miss you every single day. I am eternally grateful that you were my first dog and because of that, you won't be my last dog. You have been life's greatest blessing and I promise to make your final days or weeks here as comfortable as possible.